Obituaries

Pulaski County

RODNEY AUSTIN SR., 44, of Little Rock, Ark., transitioned April 9, 2017. He was preceded in death by Shauntria Thomas and Julia M. Boyd.

He leaves to cherish memories: son, Rodney L. Austin Jr.; parents, James

Austin and Betty Boyd; siblings, Barbara (Derrick) Sampson, James Boykins, Tina (Lee) Sanders, Dwayne Boykins, Leneeka Thomas, Danielle Thomas, Jacquella Norfleet, Tasha Kelley, Tarus Kelley, Sharon Bankhead, Edward Austin, Phillis Austin, Tarsua Barbee, Barron Austin and a host of relatives and friends.

Family Hour: Friday 5-6 p.m., at Robinson Mortuary-LR. Service: Saturday 11 a.m. at New Zion Temple Ministries, 8228 Hills Rd, NLR, Ark. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 Dr. MLK Jr. Drive, LR, Ark. (501) 371-0111. “Service You Can Trust.”

–––––❖––––– WILLIE OTHO CATLETT, age 80, of Sherwood, passed away April 8, 2017 at his home. He was born May 31, 1936 in Havana, Ark., to the late Dee and Florence Taylor Catlett. He was a retired Ophthalmologist Technician with the V.A. Hospital and Arkansas Air National Guard Veteran. We are all blessed to have known him and to have called him our friend. He was a man with a kind and beautiful soul. His sense of humor could lighten the worst situation. We will miss him every minute of every day.

He was preceded in death his parents; brothers, J.D., Herbert, and Glendell Catlett; nephews, Jay Dee and Chad Catlett. Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Effie Underwood Catlett; children, Tonya Catlett (Judith Baysinger) of North Little Rock; Robin Widmer (Charles) of Conway; Kelly Sledge (John) of Benton; Bryan Catlett (Melissa) of North Little Rock; sisters, Verzene Bell of Havana; Gail Hunt (Delbert) of Danville; brother, Earl Ledean Catlett (Sharon) of California; grandchildren, Rachel and Lauren Widmer, Kaleb and Samuel Sledge.

Funeral service will be 2 p.m. Saturday, April 15, 2017 at Moore’s Chapel Church with Bro. John McCourt officiating. Visitation will be 12 to 2 p.m. before service at the church. Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home Danville. Online guestbook and condolences at www.cornwellfuneralhomes.com.

–––––❖––––– ROSEMARY GENE COMPTON, of Parkway Village in Little Rock, lost her short battle with pancreatic cancer on April 12, 2017. Rosemary was born on April 5, 1937 in Little Rock, Ark.

She attended Ouachita Baptist University and graduated from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. She was a member of Immanuel Baptist Church, Little Rock throughout her entire life.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Gene and Aliene McRoberts and a brother, Ben E. McRoberts. Rosemary leaves behind two daughters, Stephanie Johnson and Kathleen Reynolds; five grandchildren, Candace Duncan (Geary), Brian Brazil (Melinda), Keith Houston (Julia), Brianna Reynolds and Tre’ Smiley. She also leaves behind seven great-grandchildren along with a host of friends whom she loved deeply.

Services will be at the Parkway Village Chapel, Little Rock, Monday April 17, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.comchenal.

–––––❖––––– KENDRICK ANTIONE GARDNER, 38, was born June 13, 1978 in Little Rock to Rickie and Beverly Gardner. At an early age Kendrick gave his life to Christ at Mt. Olive Baptist Church under E.D. Doyle. Kendrick work for J.B. Burkett

Inc., Arkansas Democrat Gazette Newspaper, Shell and Phillips 66 gas stations.

He was preceded in death by his father Rickie Gardner, James and Earlean Gardner and George Horton Jr. He leaves in God’s care daughter Miranda Cole-Gardner; mother, Beverly Horton-Gardner; three brothers, Quincy Gardner and Lonzell Pride; special niece, Beverly K Pride; special friend, Angela Johnson; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.

Funeral Service is set for 11 a.m. Saturday, April 15 at King Solomon Baptist Church 1904 Pine St., North Little Rock. Repast will be held at 4300 Bruno Rd., LR, Ark. Services entrusted to Brown-Calhoun Funeral Service, 7117 Geyer Springs Rd., Little Rock. (501) 904-6982. “Providing Families an Everlasting Service.”

–––––❖––––– TRACY RENEE HERNDON-ELLIOTT, age 38, of North Little Rock, passed away due to complications from cancer surrounded by family on Tuesday, April 11, 2017. She was born in Alexandria, La., on June 9, 1978 to James Barry and Sharelle Herndon. She was a 1996 graduate of Pineville High School in Pineville, La., and obtained her degree from Louisiana College in Pineville in 2000 and a Master’s Degree for piano pedagogy from Northwestern University in Natchitoches, La. She was the music director for a short time at Faith United Methodist Church in Little Rock until her illness. Prior to her cancer diagnosis, her gift of music led her to a passion for teaching children. Her ultimate dream was to open her own studio to cultivate young minds through music. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, as well as crocheting, needle point, and knitting.

In addition to her parents, she is survived by her loving husband of almost 10 years, Joseph Elliott; her brother, James Brian Herndon and wife, Cindy of Little Rock; one niece, Isabella Herndon; her aunt-in-law, Evelyn Haneman of North Little Rock, and many friends.

A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, April 15, 2017 at Parkhill Presbyterian Church, 3520 JFK Blvd., North Little Rock, Ark., with Pastor Carol Clark officiating. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations to the American Cancer Society or your local humane society. Cremation Arrangements Entrusted to Arkansas Cremation. www.ArkansasCremation.com.

–––––❖––––– SHELLEY MARIE (BRAY) PETEFISH, lost her battle with cancer on April 11, 2017 at Springhill Baptist Hospital. Shelley was born in Newport, Ark., on December 27, 1963 to Alton and Lou (Harris) Bray. Shelley graduated from Tuckerman High School in 1982.

Shelley was a long time member of the First United Methodist Church in Jacksonville where she touched the lives of many people. Shelley’s passion to work with youth was embedded deeply in her soul and nothing deterred her from helping a youth, any time, any place.

Shelley is survived by her parents Al and Lou Bray; her husband of 19 years, John Petefish; four children, Rachael (Davidson) Garrison and her husband Adam, Matthew Davidson, Sarah Grace Petefish and Ann Marie Petefish; two sisters, Lou Ann Bray and Ann Marie Clark; one grandchild Katheryn Garrison; her beloved dog Sophie and a slew of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Those graced by Shelley’s presence will remember her as a kind, loving, and compassionate woman. Shelley enjoyed flowers and gardening. She loved to be outside.

Memorial services for Shelley will be Saturday, April 15, 2017 at the Jacksonville First United Methodist Church at 1 p.m., followed by a visitation celebrating The life of Shelley from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the Youth Activity Center. Arrangements by Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home (501) 982-2136. Sign online guestbook at www.mooresjacksonvillefuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– MARY ANN PIFER, 70, of Jacksonville, Ark., died April 11. Visitation: 6-8 p.m., Thursday, April 13, 2017 at Roller-Owens Funeral Home, 5509 John F. Kennedy Blvd., NLR. Funeral Service: 11 a.m., Friday, April 14, 2017 at Apostolic Church, 4314 Landers Road, NLR, Ark. Burial: Arkansas Memorial Gardens. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes. com/owens.

–––––❖––––– LARRY LYNN PLUNKETT of Roland, Ark., passed away unexpectedly at 5:50 p.m. Monday, April 10, 2017 at the age of 68.

Larry was born on May 1, 1948 in Little Rock, Ark., to Orville and Donna Plunkett. Larry worked for many years at Oak Brothers, Inc. After retirement, he enjoyed drinking a cold beer and tinkering with automobiles. Larry always had an open door for all his friends to stop by and share a good laugh or story. He would do anything for anybody and was full of love and laughter.

Larry was a hard-working man, who would give his shirt off his back to help anyone who asked him. He was a devoted father to his two beautiful children, and his dog Butthead. Larry is survived by his life companion, Beth Ward; daughters: Kelly Tedder (Scott) of Cabot, and Dana Greenwood (Scott) of Ward; brothers and sisters: O.L “Buck” Plunkett (Margaret) of Little Rock, Donna Johnson (Bill) of Little Rock, R.L. “Dick” Plunkett (Janet) of Ferndale, Jenna Hacker (Larry) of Bryant; grandchildren: Skylar Tedder of Cabot and Saylar Tedder of Cabot; two step-grandchildren; Beth Wards, daughter: Nicole Herndon of Roland, and her children: Braxton Wakefield, Autumn Fletcher also of Roland. Preceded in death by: parents: Orville Louis Plunkett Sr. and Donna Lois Plunkett; and one brother: Phillip Leslie Plunkett.

The Visitation will be from 3-4 p.m., Thursday, April 13, 2017. The Memorial Service will follow directly after from 4-5 p.m. on Thursday. The Services will be at Crystal Hill Baptist Church; 18823 Crystal Valley Rd., Little Rock, Ark. 72210. Please send flowers to Crystal Hill Baptist Church. www.heberspringsfuneralhome. com.

–––––❖––––– SCOTT ANTHONY SMITH, 48, of Little Rock, died April 11, 2017, born on September 5, 1968. Cremation arrangements entrusted to A Natural State Funeral Service, Jacksonville, (501) 982-3400. Online guestbook can be found at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com.

–––––❖––––– STEPHEN LOYD STANLEY, age 44, passed away on April 11, 2017 at the Arkansas Heart Hospital. He was born March 19, 1973 in Little Rock to Loyd and Barbara (Coe) Stanley. He loved living in Little Rock’s Hillcrest neighborhood.

Stephen adored his dogs, and always helped a dog in need, including fostering and adopting several. His favorite sport was NASCAR, and spending time with friends. He trained in Gunsmithing at the Colorado School of Trade and he was employed in the family business, Stanley Jewelers Gemologist, on and off throughout his life. He worked on watches there, as well as selling jewelry.

One of Stephen’s great loves was anything with a motor. He loved his Mustangs including his beautiful blue Shelby, which he enjoyed immensely. He loved Harley Davidson motorcycles and owned several throughout the years. He was a friend to many and he will be missed.

He is survived by his father, Loyd Stanley and his wife Kaye Stanley; his sisters, Caroline Stanley and her husband Dennis Nakasone and their two children, and Laura Stanley and her husband Henry J. Mroczkowski.

A service will be held at North Little Rock Funeral Home on Friday, April 14th at 5 p.m. Visitation to follow at the funeral home. 1921 Main, North Little Rock, 72114.

Donations may be made to either the Humane Society of Pulaski County or the Paws In Prison Program for dog training. Online obituary at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

–––––❖––––– JULIA ANN MAY WILLIAMS, 87, of Little Rock, wife of James Alexander Williams, died April 12, 2017. She was born in Pine Bluff, Ark., on September 23, 1929, to the late John Ewell and Mildred Bidell May. She graduated from

Pine Bluff High

School in 1947 and attended Randolph-Macon Woman’s College in Lynchburg, Va., the University of Arkansas, and graduated from UALR with a Bachelor of Arts Degree.

In 1950, she married the late Frank Thomas McGehee of Pine Bluff and they had three children: Frank Thomas McGehee, M.D., of Fort Worth, Texas, Peter Gregory McGehee, deceased, and Julie McGehee Honeycutt of Little Rock. The family moved to Little Rock in 1962.

Julia Ann began teaching when Julie entered the first grade. She went to Parkview High School when it opened, and spent 14 years there teaching English and Journalism. She was founding advisor to the Constitution and Spirit of (‘68 through ‘78), Parkview’s newspaper and yearbook. The publications both won top awards from the National Scholastic Press Association and Columbia Scholastic Press Association. The Parkview Department of Journalism was featured in Scholastic Journalism, a textbook, as the first high school department in the United States to produce its newspaper camera-ready for the printer. Julia Ann was named Arkansas Journalism Adviser of the Year by the Arkansas High School Press Association.

She taught workshops at the University of Missouri, Columbia University, Ouachita Baptist University, and Southern Methodist University. Her former students are among her most cherished friends.

In 1979, she began a 10-year career as Communications Director for the Little Rock School District. She founded the District newsletter “Focus, Little Rock School District,” a monthly newsletter for parents, students, staff and other patrons of LRSD. Through her efforts and the Superintendent’s, LRSD received a cable television channel when cable came to Arkansas. She won a Rockefeller Foundation Grant to equip and operate the channel, and she and her staff provided programming for it, rotating schools featured, District Board meetings and other events.

She believed that the most important facet of her public relations work was responding promptly to concerns of parents and the public, and routing their inquiries to the proper administrator, department or school. She managed eight millage campaigns in her 10-year tenure.

Since retiring in 1989, Julia Ann enjoyed freelance work, her service at Second Presbyterian Church as deacon, on the Pastoral Care Committee, and as a Stephen Minister.

When Alexandra Ann and Christina Lee Honeycutt were born in 1996 to daughter Julie and her husband, Mike, she spent much time caring for the twins and their family, her favorite occupation.

In 2001, she married James Alexander Williams, a childhood friend, and they lived in Dallas, Texas, where he was an attorney, and in Little Rock. This third phase of her life was a blessing for which she was ever grateful.

In 2005, Julia Ann and Jim moved to Pine Bluff where she was an active member of First Presbyterian Church.

In 2014, Julia Ann and Jim moved back to Little Rock to be closer to family and doctors.

Julia Ann was a member of Second Presbyterian in Little Rock, University Park United Methodist Church in Dallas, the Pine Bluff and Little Rock Junior Leagues, Pine Bluff’s Junior Sesame Club, of which she was past-president, and Pi Beta Phi sorority.

Julia Ann is survived by her husband Jim Williams; son Dr. Frank McGehee and his wife, Pam, of Fort Worth, Texas; daughter Julie Honeycutt and her husband, Mike, who was like a son to her, and their precious Alexandra and Christina; grandchildren William Mitchell McGehee and his wife, Jessica, of Oakland, Calif., Jillian McGehee of Little Rock, Carlynn McGehee of Miami, Fla., Elizabeth McGehee of Fort Worth, Texas, and Alexandra and Christina. Two cousins, whom she considered the siblings she never had, Beverly Scull Yocum of El Dorado, and the Reverend Scott May of Atlanta, Ga., survive her, as well as three stepdaughters, Victoria Williams of San Antonio, Texas, Dr. Diana Williams of Jonesboro, and Laura Kaufman of Dallas, Texas. In addition to her family, she leaves her devotion to her beloved former students, to her lifelong cherished friends from Pine Bluff with whom she never

parted, the many friends she had in Little Rock, and the friends she enjoyed in Dallas, who welcomed her into their lives.

A memorial service will be held at Second Presbyterian Church, 600 Pleasant Valley Drive, Little Rock, Saturday, April 15 at 1 p.m. Her cremated remains will rest in Bellwood Cemetery, Pine Bluff.

Her family would like to thank Dr. Thomas Sneed, CARTI, her nurses and caregivers at Presbyterian Village and Arkansas Hospice. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Presbyterian Village, Second Presbyterian Church, CARTI or the charity of your choice. Online condolences: ralphrobinsonandson.com.

Arkansas

BALD KNOB — Arlene White, 63, went to be the Lord on Tuesday, April 11, 2017. Survivors: her husband of 42 years, Darrell White; six children and 12 grandchildren. Funeral Services: 11 a.m., Saturday, April 15, Powell Funeral Home Chapel-Bald Knob. Interment: Union Grove Cemetery. Arrangements by Powell Funeral Home Bald Knob-Judsonia. www.powellfuneralhome.net.

–––––❖––––– BATESVILLE — Dorothy Mae Taylor, 81, of Batesville, died April 11, 2017. She was born March 27, 1936 in Leachville, Ark., to the late Arvil and Minnie (Robertson) Dodd. Visitation is April 12, 2017 from 6:30 until 8:30 p.m. Service Thursday, at 2 p.m. at Bradford Memorial Funeral Home in Bradford, Ark. Arrangements entrusted to Bradford Memorial Funeral Home.

–––––❖––––– BENTON — Clara Mae McWilliams, 96, of Benton, Ark., passed away on April 11, 2017. She was born January 19, 1921 in Olvey, Ark., to Luther Franklin and Alma Elizabeth (Pope) Troutman. Clara

Mae married

Carl Joseph McWilliams December 19, 1945. Clara Mae was the bookkeeper for the family contracting business while also being the family homemaker raising three boys. She volunteered as a librarian at two local schools — Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic School and Catholic High School for Boys. Clara Mae was one of the original members of Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church. She lived in Little Rock until she moved to Benton in 2014.

Clara Mae was preceded in death by Luther and Alma Troutman, her parents; Carl McWilliams, her husband of 64 years; John F. Troutman, her brother; and Elizabeth Ann McWilliams, her granddaughter. Her memory will be cherished by her sons and families: Gary and wife Ann of Houston, Texas, Roger and wife Carol of Byram, Mississippi, Clark and wife Carrie of Benton, Ark.; and grandchildren, Paul, Karen, Ross, and Jack McWilliams as well as extended family and friends. All will miss her dearly.

Graveside services will be on April 15 at 2:30 p.m. at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Alexander, Ark. Rev. Paul Worm will be presiding. A reception will follow at the family farm. Online guestbook is available at www.griffinleggettforesthills.com.

–––––❖––––– BENTON — Winston Dale Mize, age 85, of Benton passed away early on Tuesday, April 11, 2017.

He was born July 13, 1931 to Olin and Mary Ruth Mize of Bauxite, Arkansas. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Peggy Mize, who was the love of his life and his best friend. He is also survived by his daughters, Brenda Mize of Little Rock, Robin Fuhrman (Bryant) of Little Rock, Paula Dahm (Mike) of Pittsburgh, Pa.; and grandchildren, Brian Dahm (Julia) and Beth Ballard (Ben), all from Pittsburgh, Pa. He was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Beth Davis, of Benton.

As a high school athlete with the Bauxite Miners, Dale was known as “Moose Mize.” He enjoyed football and held several state records in track and field. Dale was later inducted in the Bauxite Hall of Fame and then continued to serve on the Hall of Fame Committee.

After serving in the Army for two years, Dale had a long career with Alcoa. As a mechanical engineer, he held many managerial positions, which included assignments in Bauxite, Ark., Mobile, Ala., Kingston, Jamaica, and San Luis, Brazil.

Dale was a committed longterm member of First United Methodist Church of Benton and a member of the Covenant Sunday School Class.

Dale enjoyed many things in life but his greatest joy was his time with his wife Peggy. Together they enjoyed family, church, dogs, golf, Razorback sports, and travel. Their last travel was a road trip to complete their goal of travel through all 50 states.

Later in life, Dale was known by his golfing buddies as “The Big Guy.” This nickname not only described his height, but truly described his heart. He was compassionate not only to his family and friends, but felt responsibility to reach out within his church and community. The example he set as a husband, a father, a grandfather, friend, and member of the community will influence many lives forever.

Visitation will be held on Friday, April 14 from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. at Ashby’s Funeral Home in Benton. A memorial service will be held at First United Methodist Church in Benton at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 15. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, 200 N Market Street, Benton, Ark. 72015. Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– BENTON — Cindy Rivera, 62, of Benton, passed away Tuesday, April 11, 2017. She is survived by two daughters; five grandchildren; five sisters; and four brothers. Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m., on Friday, April 14 at Roller-Owens Funeral Home, 5509 John F. Kennedy Blvd., (501) 791-7400. Burial will be at 10 a.m., on Saturday, April 15 at Rest Hills Memorial Park in North Little Rock. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes. com/owens.

–––––❖––––– BENTON — Evelyn Madeline (Burkett) Wisdom passed away Tuesday, April 11, 2017. She was born August 8, 1924 to Andrew Bertie “A.B.” and Ora Samantha Burkett in Trent, Texas. She married Forrest Brooks Wisdom in 1946, after he returned from WWII.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her husband, Forrest after 64 years of marriage; son, Alan and grandson, Patrick. She is survived by Pam (Gary) Fowler of Benton, Amy Wisdom (David Eifling) of Little Rock; three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Evelyn was a master porcelain painter and seamstress, who traveled the world with her husband. She will be missed for her enduring sweet disposition and the twinkle in her eye.

The family would like to thank the caregivers at Parkway Health Center for making Evelyn’s life with Alzheimer’s the best it could be.

Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 247, Beebe, Ark. 72012 or

Alzheimer’s Association, Arkansas, 5506 Walsh Lane, Suite 212, Rogers, Ark. 72756.

Family will receive friends starting at 9 a.m. Friday, April 14, 2017 at Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home, Beebe with Funeral to follow at 10 a.m. with burial in Antioch Cemetery. Arrangements by Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home. www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

–––––❖––––– CABOT — Carmel A. Hackler, 51 of Cabot died Tuesday, April 11, 2017. She was born September 20, 1965 in Scott to Robert and Barbara Marcotte Lemay.

Mrs. Hackler is survived by her husband, Richard Hackler; her children, Clint Knox, Anthony Harris and Keith Hackler, Jr. and a host of grandchildren.

Cremation arrangements are by Moore’s Cabot Funeral Home and Crematory (501) 843-5816. Please sign the online guestbook at www.moorescabotfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– CARLISLE — Henry Lee, 84, of Carlisle died on April 11, 2017. Henry and his wife Ann loved to travel. He was a Navy veteran. Preceding him in death, parents James and Mattie Lee, wife Ann, two brothers and three sisters. Survivors include two brothers and three sisters. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Friday in Boyd Funeral Home Chapel, Lonoke. www.boydfuneralhome. net.

–––––❖––––– CARLISLE — Carolyn K. Petrus, 71, died April 7, 2017. She is preceded in death by her parents, Wesley and Ida Kerr, and one sister, Wanda (Jerry) Tolbert.

Survivors include her husband, Andrew W. Petrus; sons, Anthony (Barbara) Petrus of Rheinfelden, Germany, Mark (Sara) Petrus of Plano, Texas, Kevin (Yvonne) Petrus of Carlisle, and daughter, Tonya (Rickey) Browning of Beebe; 11 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; sisters, Clara Pasley, Catherine Major, Mary Baker, Panzy Shook, Grace Domingues, Connie Adams and Anita Cohen.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 15, at Peppers Lake Church of Christ, DeValls Bluff with visitation one hour prior to service. Arrangements by Boyd Funeral Home, Lonoke. www.boydfuneralhome. net.

–––––❖––––– CONWAY — Reba Marie (Holt) Huff, age 77, died Tuesday, April 4, 2017, after battling lung cancer. She was born on November 26, 1939, in West Helena, Arkansas, to Claude and Florence (Bradley) Holt. She was married to Jimmy L. Huff and together they shared three daughters: Karen Farrow of Seattle, Washington, Sharon Huff of Greenbrier, Arkansas, and Darlene Zarlingo of Conway, Arkansas.

She has seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband and parents and is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, Claude Holt Jr (brother) and Theresa Heffington (sister).

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 15th, 2017, at Roller-McNutt Funeral Home located in Conway, Arkansas, at 3 p.m. with services being officiated by Pastor Rick Montgomery of The Zoo Church located in Dennard, Arkansas. Memorial donations may be made in Reba’s honor and have been requested to be given to The Zoo Church. Entrusted to Roller McNutt Funeral Home Conway. www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/ conway.

–––––❖––––– CONWAY — Velma Lee Bradley Spradlin, 78, of Conway, went to be with the Lord on Friday, April 7, 2017. She was born September 20, 1938, in Conway, Arkansas. The daughter of Ottus James and Ola Glade Sims Bradley.

Velma was a member of Salem United Methodist Church, and co-owner operator of Wescon Machining Inc. Mrs. Spradlin was involved with the Relay for Life, Cancer Society, Faulkner County Fair Parade Committee, and many other community affairs. She was also an avid hobbyist, always crafting or sewing. She lived for her grandchildren, never missing a sports event, concert or banquet. A loving wife, mother, and grandmother, who dedicated her life to her family and community.

She is survived by her husband Jerry Dean Spradlin, her children Bobby Dean Spradlin and Shelly Lee Ritchie (Jarrod), and her grandchildren Sydney Spradlin, Dillon Mahan, Parker Spradlin, and Colton Antone. And two step granddaughters, Bralee Ritchie and Mattie Ritchie. She is preceded in death by her son Dennis James Spradlin.

Visitation will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 15th with service following at 11 a.m. at Salem United Methodist Church in Conway. Graveside service will follow at Crestlawn Memorial Park. Serving as pallbearers will be Bo Ballard, Tom Voegele, Wayne Rose, Mike Fulmer, Tony Ferrell and Chris Jones. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to American Cancer Society, 901 North University Ave, Little Rock, Ark. 72207 in memory of her Relay for Life team with Salem United Methodist Church. Online guest book: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.

–––––❖––––– EDGEMONT — Emojean Lockard, age 89, of Edgemont died April 10, 2017, at Conway, Arkansas. Visitation hours will be 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, April 13, 2017, at Heber Springs Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 10 am Friday, April 14, 2017, at Hilltop Holiness Church in Prim. Interment: Everett Cemetery. www. heberspringsfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– EUDORA — Mary Evelyn Nichols, age 91, of Eudora died Tuesday, April 11, 2017, at home in Eudora. She was born March 12, 1926, in Meridian, Miss. She is the daughter of the late John Wesley and the late Carrie Elizabeth (Wilson) Collins. She was a homemaker, a member of Wellford Share Group, and member of Northside Baptist Church in Eudora, Arkansas.

Preceded in death by her parents, husband, Elmer T. Nichols, daughters, Mary West and Patricia Runnels, granddaughter, Carrie Elizabeth Smith, brother, Buddy Collins, four sisters, Lorene Whittington, Shirley Curry, Betty Gilliam, and Maxine Hearnsberger. She is survived by her three sons, Donald Nichols, Ronald (Marilyn) Nichols, and Terry (Stephanie) Nichols, all of Eudora, Arkansas; four daughters, Phyllis (Edsel) Purifoy of Gurdon, Ark., Linda (Billy) Foster of Lake Village, Lisa (Robert) Johnson of Eudora, and Carol (Randy) Aaron of Oak Grove, La.; 22 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Visitation will be Thursday, April 13 from 12-2 p.m. at Northside Baptist Church in Eudora, Arkansas, with the funeral at 2 p.m. with Bro. James Kitchens officiating. Burial will follow in Mt. Carmel Cemetery under the direction of Bishop-King Funeral Home of Lake Village.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Arkansas Sheriffs’ Youth Ranches, P.O. Box 3964, Batesville, Ark. 72503 or Mt. Carmel Cemetery, P.O. Box 164, Eudora, Ark. 71640.

–––––❖––––– FAYETTEVILLE — Julia Jeanette Williams, age 93, of Fayetteville, passed away on Monday, April 10, 2017. She was born on April 20, 1923, in Warren, Ark., to Thomas H. and Vestie Ann Taylor Woodall.

Julia worked for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company and later as a homemaker. She graduated from Tulsa Academy of Hairdressing in 1972 and then worked as a hairdresser at Froug’s Department Store in Tulsa from 1972-1980.

She volunteered for several years at Rebsamen Hospital in Jacksonville, Ark. She loved all missions work. She was involved with Bible Study Fellowship, “Joy” Doll Missions at Gravel Ridge Baptist Church, Little Rock Air Force Base Chapel Bible Study, and Morningside Bible Study.

Julia was a member of Gravel Ridge Baptist Church from 19962012 and a member of First Baptist Church in Fayetteville from 2013-17. She lived at Morningside of Fayetteville from 2014-17.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Russell Durrell Williams; her six siblings, John Woodall, Dee Woodall, Homer Woodall, Howard T. Woodall, Curtis Woodall, and Maudie Mae Woodall-Tipton.

She is survived by her three children, Bobby Russell Williams and wife Kathy, Larry Gene Williams and wife Paulette, and Barbara Ann Williams McBryde and husband Bryan; seven grandchildren, Patricia Florsheim and husband Michael, Kevin Williams and wife Jessica, Eric Williams and wife Aimee, Jennifer Butcher and husband Brad, Brandon McBryde, Ben McBryde, and Brett McBryde; and six great-grandchildren, Tayla Florsheim, Abigail Butcher, Anna Butcher, Elijah Williams, Bryce Butcher, and Daniel Williams.

A visitation will be held from 5 p.m.-7 p.m. on Friday, April 14, 2017, at Nelson-Berna Funeral Home Chapel in Fayetteville. A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 15, 2017, at Nelson-Berna Funeral Home. Interment to follow at Fairview Memorial Gardens in Fayetteville.

Memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Association or First Baptist Church of Fayetteville. Condolences may be given online at www. nelsonberna.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Nelson-Berna Funeral Home and Crematory of Fayetteville.

–––––❖––––– GREENBRIER — Laverda Mitchell, 85, of Greenbrier was born July 16, 1931 and passed away April 10, 2017. Funeral Services will be at 1 p.m. on Thursday, April 13, 2017 at the Roller-McNutt Funeral Home Chapel in Clinton, Ark., with interment following at Quattlebaum Cemetery. For online guestbook www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/clinton.

–––––❖––––– HASKELL — Dale Turner, 36, of Haskell, born April 6, 1981, departed this earth April 8, 2017. He leaves to cherish his memory: his children, Caleb, Dax, Nathan, Will, Mathew and Zander; his siblings Rachel Turner, Steven Turner, Paige Ivy and Brett Ivy; parents Sheila Ivy and Roger Turner as well as a host of family and friends. The joy of Dale’s life was his children and his bike. He passed doing what he loved with the people that he loved. Memorial Service will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, April 15, 2017 at Ashby Funeral home in Benton. On-line guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– HOPE — Jerrold Durand Merrick, was born to Condolia (Connie) Merrick and Albert Rogers on March 17, 1963, in Chicago, Ill. He was raised and nurtured by his grandparents, the late Fred Merrick and Ziporah Essilee Watts Merrick. Jerrold lived with his Aunt Gloria Merrick after the passing of his grandfather.

Jerrold departed this life on Thursday, April 6, 2017. He is now reunited with his grandparents (Fred and Ziporah Merrick); father, Albert Rogers; step-father, Percy Sergeant, aunt, Shirley Merrick Jenkins, and uncles, Elmer and Charles Merrick.

Jerrold received his Christian foundation at Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, McCaskill, Ark. Jerrold was an honor graduate of Blevins High School Class of 1981. He received a Bachelor’s Degree in Business from Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia, Ark. He was a member of the brotherhood of Kappa Alpha Psi, Fraternity.

Jerrold was a former employee of Firestone in Prescott, Ark., over, 20 years. For the past 10 years, he worked at Domtar Paper Company in Ashdown, Ark.

Left with cherished memories of Jerrold is his children, twins, Jeremy Merrick and Jarvis Merrick (Marissa Bouanhuenh) and Amber Merrick (Jerry Stewart); granddaughter, Mia Melody-Dao Merrick; his mother, Condolia Sergeant; siblings, Angela Beckford, Darlene Shavers, Daralyn Rogers, Kelvin Sergeant (Sharon), Percy Sergeant Jr. (Stella), Lamont Sergeant (Kanechia) and Albert Rogers Jr. (Patricia). His beloved aunts and uncles, Faye (Robert) Wilburn Sr. of Colorado Springs, Colo., Louise (Joe) White of Chicago, Ill., Gloria Merrick of Hope, and Dr. Sadie (Benard) Mitchell of Little Rock; James (Patsy) Merrick of Chicago, Ill.; a host of nieces, nephews and extended family.

Guest registry is at http:// www.carriganmemorial.com. Funeral service will be 11 a.m. Saturday, April 15, 2017 at Rising Star Baptist Church 1002 East Beech Street, Hope, Ark. Visitation will be Friday, April 14, 2017 from 6-7 p.m. at Herndon-Pharr Funeral Home 403 S. Main Street, Hope, Ark. Arrangements are entrusted to Carrigan Memorial Funeral Services. (501) 623-7664.

–––––❖––––– LAKEVIEW — Robert Albert Riemer Jr. passed away April 10, 2017. Survived by his wife, three children, four grandchildren and one sister. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother. Private arrangements by Conner Family Funeral Home & Cremation Center. An online guestbook and obituary are available at www.connerfamilyfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– LONOKE — Reba Ann Donahue, 78, passed away April 11, 2017. She is preceded in death by parents Durwood and Ethel Groce; sisters, Juanita Watson, Judy Hill; brother, John “Buddy” McIntyre. Those remaining to cherish her memory, spouse, Roger Donahue Jr.; sons, Roger Donahue III, David Donahue; daughters, Sherri Lewis, Tanya Centofanti, Kimberly (Donald) Montgomery, Jessica Donahue; six granddaughters, five grandsons; five nephews, one niece and a host of great-nieces, great-nephews and many friends. A memorial service will be held at Boyd’s Chapel in Lonoke on Friday, April 14th at 10 a.m. www.boydfuneralhome.net.

–––––❖––––– MALVERN — Darrell Clifton, 53, Malvern passed, April 8, 2017. Born October 23, 1963 in Yuba City, Calif., son of the late Paul and Wilma Carole (Echols) Clifton. Memorial services Saturday, April 15, 2017, 10 a.m. Cremation arrangements by Regency Funeral Home. You may sign the guest book at regencyfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– MALVERN — Mary Beth Edwards Turk, 70, of Malvern passed away April 11, 2017. Mary was born to the late John and Margie Edwards, September 15, 1946, in Malvern, Ark.

Mary is preceded in death by her parents, and one son, Billy Carson. Mary is survived by her children, Karen Mears, Scott Carson, her brother, John Edwards, her sisters, Ann Edwards Shep- ard and Deloris Edwards Jester. She also leaves behind her grandchildren, Heather Swayze, Megan Mears, Peyton Carson, Bailey Mears and Zane Mears.

A Memorial Service will be held 2 p.m. Friday, April 14, 2017 at Keith Memorial Methodist Church in Malvern with Pastor Jeff Ladd officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family to assist in expenses occurred during Mary’s illness. Arrangements entrusted to Atkinson Funeral Home in Malvern. Guests may leave online condolences at www.atkinsonfuneralhome.net.

–––––❖––––– MAYFLOWER — Vernon Lee Dillon, 79, of Mayflower, Arkansas died Monday, April 10, 2017. He was born Wednesday, July 28, 1937 in Mayflower, Arkansas. Visitation: 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, April 12, 2017 and Funeral Services 1 p.m. Thursday, April 13, 2017 at Roller McNutt Funeral Home Conway. Interment will follow in Mayflower Cemetery. Online guestbook:www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/conway.

–––––❖––––– MENA — Betty Lou Titsworth, 82, of Mena passed away April 10, 2017 in Ft. Smith, Arkansas. Funeral service will be Saturday, April 15, 2017, 3 p.m. at Mountain View Methodist. Interment will follow in the Nunley Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

–––––❖––––– MONTICELLO — Joan Losty Ellis, age 78, of Monticello, passed away Monday, April 10, 2017 in Little Rock. Graveside service was held at 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 11, 2017 at Oakland Cemetery. Arrangements by Stephenson-Dearman. Online guestbook www.stephensondearman.com.

–––––❖––––– NASHVILLE — Mary A Dildy, 79, of Nashville, died April 3, 2017. The family will celebrate Mary’s life 11 a.m. Friday, April 14 at the County Line Church Activities Building in Nashville, with a visitation there from 10-11 a.m.

–––––❖––––– RUSSELLVILLE — Arvie Dee Fisher, age 82, of Russellville, died Wednesday, April 12, 2017. He was retired from Tyson Foods. The family will conduct a memorial service at a later date. Arrangements are by Shinn Funeral Service of Russellville. The online obituary and guestbook are available at www.shinnfuneral.com.

–––––❖––––– STUTTGART — Doris Erstine, 91, died Tuesday. Survivors are husband, James Erstine Sr.; sons, Mike Erstine and Philip Erstine; five grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. Visitation is 9 a.m. Friday at Holy Rosary Catholic Church with Rosary at 9:30 a.m. Funeral is 10 a.m. with burial in Holy Rosary Catholic Cemetery by Turpin Funeral Home. www.turpin-co.com.

Out-of-state

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. — Paul Thornton, 67, of Mountain View, California, died Tuesday, April 11th at his childhood home, Warren. Survivors, Wilburn Thornton Jr., Marty Thornton, Jimmy Thornton, Bob Thornton, Warren, Ark.; sisters, Betty Lou Broome, Alice Rook, Mary Thornton, Warren, Ruth Thayer, Austin, Ark. Graveside: 2 p.m. Monday, Oakland by Frazer’s. www.frazerfuneralhome.com.

–––––❖––––– BYHALIA, Miss. — Jim Kelley, 69, of Byhalia, Mississippi, died Monday, April 10, 2017. Funeral service: 2 p.m. Thursday, Jones-Hartshorn Funeral Home Chapel with burial in Green Grove Cemetery. Visitation: 1-2 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Jones-Hartshorn Funeral Home, Hamburg. Online guest book at www.jones-hartshorn.com.